KEN BEDENE Addresses Leaving ABORTED: “I Left The Band To Distance Them From This”

Aborted recently and suddenly split with longtime drummer Ken Bedene. At the time, Aborted shared a brief statement saying that Bedene was out “effective immediately” and was replaced by former Benighted drummer Kévin Paradis.

“Effective immediately, Ken Bedene is no longer a member of Aborted,” wrote Aborted. “The upcoming European tour is going forward as planned with blast duties being handled by none other than Kevin Paradis.”

Now Bedene has addressed his departure from the band, saying he “had a consensual and reciprocated conversation online with someone of consenting age in her state.” Bedene also notes that he and his wife have an open relationship, and that he left Aborted so the band wouldn’t get any more negative attention.

“Over the past two weeks, I have taken time to reflect on what’s been posted – knowing how important it is for me to address it. I never intended to make anyone uncomfortable, and I am truly sorry.

“The bottom line is: I had a consensual and reciprocated conversation online with someone of consenting age in her state. While legal, I understand it never should have happened.

“Those who know me are rightly surprised at the situation and the extensive misinformation out there. I’ve always carried myself with respect for others. Consent is something I take seriously, and I would never knowingly cross that line.

“I’m horrified by the false claims about the conversation and about my character. Though this was a private conversation, and the falsification of events surrounding it is defamatory, I will not continue the rhetoric by sharing ‘my side.’ My focus right now is acknowledging my part and learning from it.

“As a husband and father, seeing my family so negatively affected by something they did not do has been brutal. Though my wife has already shared that we have an open relationship, I am truly sorry to her for the inappropriate attention she’s received as a result of my actions. She’s my best friend, and I have the utmost respect for her and the life we’ve built together. She’s stood by me through everything, and she doesn’t deserve the harassment.

“My departure from Aborted is intended to protect the people and the community I’ve cared about and created music with for more than 15 years. I left the band to distance them from this. They had no part in my communications, and they shouldn’t have to carry the weight of them.

“Going forward, I am taking a step back to help my family heal and to reflect. Thank you.”